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"Since I decided to run for this seat late in May, I've been working hard to meet the people who live in the new Sixth Congressional District," said Robert.

The newly drawn Sixth Congressional District includes Anoka, Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, Washington, and Wright counties. The district wraps around the Twin Cities area from Woodbury and Stillwater in the east through Anoka to the north, St. Cloud in the northwest, and Paynesville in the west. It includes the city of Paynesville, Paynesville Township, and the eastern part of Zion Township.

"It's a big district," Robert continued, "but with the groundswell of public support that my campaign has experienced so far, we'll cover every city and township before we're through."

Robert, a Democrat, could face Mark Kennedy, a first-term Republican who currently represents the Second District, which also currently includes the city of Paynesville and Paynesville Township. Kennedy barely won by 155 votes over Congressman David Minge in 2000.

"For all intents and purposes, this is an open seat race," Roberts stated. "Democrats have historically won all six of the counties in this district over the years, and I intend to keep that record in tact."

Robert's campaign plans for July include an official announcement swing through the district and a campaign office open house in Anoka.